“I never thought it would be my career,” Peter Zay says. “I would just wake up in the morning and gravitate toward something to do with music.”
Peter began learning cello at six years old from his mother. It was an organic part of his upbringing — almost seamless. In high school, he stepped away from the instrument for two years, immersing himself in piano, guitar, songwriting, and playing in bands.
“Luckily,” he says, “I came back to the cello. It was like reconnecting with an old friend, just picking up where we left off.”
Encouraged by inspiring mentors, including cellist David Wells, Peter realized he was good enough to pursue conservatory studies — and perhaps even a career. Right out of college, he auditioned for the New World Symphony in Miami — the first in a long series of auditions.
“Any successful musician has to cope with losing an audition,” he explains. “It’s part of the process. It’s very competitive. There are so many great musicians. There’s no guarantee — even if you play amazingly well. You have to keep going. You always have to strive to become a better player. “
Today, Peter performs several times a week as a freelancer, often driving across multiple states for rehearsals and concerts. Preparation — mental and physical — is essential.
“You must always do your best. Whether it’s a wedding or a major stage. Sometimes you haven’t seen the music before, but it’s your job to make it sound like you know it.”
A Musician — and a Person First
Peter describes himself as “a person first, then a musician.”
He values family, relationships, physical activity, and the richness of existence. For decades he stayed physically strong through sports, hiking, splitting wood, and even renovating houses. Now, with the wisdom of experience, he balances that energy with stretching and protecting his body.
At home, music is woven deeply into family life. Whether it’s discussion about an artistic phrase or technique with his wife, Anastasia, who also has a musical background or performing together with their daughter, Sofia, music is a meaningful part of daily operations. Their daughter, Sofia, is now a piano and vocal performance major. One of Peter’s most cherished experiences was performing together — she accompanying him on a sonata.
“These are the most beautiful moments in life for us.”
Since Sofia was young, the three have recorded homemade Christmas albums to share with friends and family. Peter still treasures the early recordings of her singing. “They’re priceless.”
Beyond Classical
While classical music is his foundation, Peter embraces many musical worlds. During the pandemic, creative seeds took root that grew into new collaborations, including performances blending classical and old-time fiddle music with his band Larksgrove.
“Although I primarily play classical, I enjoy interacting with audiences and playing different roles.”
Interestingly, he says preparing for guitar performances sometimes takes more effort than cello — simply because he hasn’t spent as many decades with it.
“You need to be prepared mentally and physically. Bigger performances take more preparation. But whatever you’re doing, you give your best.”
Fifteen Years with the Phil
Peter has served as Principal Cello of the Phil for approximately 15 years. He auditioned for the role under Music Director Steven Karidoyanes and immediately felt the appeal.
“As principal, you can really make a difference in shaping the section.”
He and Steven connected right away. “He’s such a great conductor and leader. Very inspiring.”
He values the orchestra’s sound, the programming, his colleagues — especially stand partner Michael Czitrom — and the appreciation of Plymouth audiences.
“What we do is about live performance. It’s something you can’t get online.”
⚡ Rapid Fire
Coffee before rehearsal?
No. It throws me off balance. Coffee keeps me up at night and I need to get my sleep to be productive.
Favorite non-classical album?
Impossible to choose — but right now, I’m listening to Submarine by The Marías.
Sunrise sail or late-night jam session?
Both — I once played on a cruise aboard an old-fashioned sailboat for several days.
A piece everyone should hear live at least once?
The Dvořák Cello Concerto — absolutely beautiful and one of the most inspirational works for any cellist.
If your dog could play an instrument?
She’d be a singer. She’s an incredible barker — and she howls. When she was a puppy, she used to fall asleep under my cello while I practiced. She still does. She’s my practice companion.
To learn more about Peter go to:
